On the Transformation of Humans into Vampires in Buffy the Vampire Slayer: A Viral Disease Model

Abstract

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003) and its companion series Angel (1999-2004) are fictional American television shows featuring humans, vampires, and the complex interactions between them. Vampires contrast strongly from humans via their significant physical advantage and tendency to act without guilt or remorse, yet vampires retain many deeply human qualities (Magnusson, 2011; Geller 2011). This dichotomy—between the human and nonhuman parts of vampires—is frequently referenced and explored throughout both series (Angel, “Hero” 1.9; BtVS, “Who Are You?” 4.16). Yet what precisely distinguishes a vampire from a human, and can we sufficiently describe such differences through a scientific lens? As an avenue for analysis, we can closely interrogate special cases within the Buffyverse known as siring. Siring occurs when a human is transformed into a vampire, a process which must take place over the course of several hours or more. Closely addressing variations that occur between a human and their vampiric form highlights specific changes to human physiology and behavior, enabling us to better understand vampires across Buffy and other fictional works.